Unconventional Evolution: Pink Floyd's Meddle Album Cover Saga
Pink Floyd's sixth album, Meddle, released in 1971, almost had a very different album cover. The band rejected art director Storm Thorgerson's initial suggestion of featuring a close-up photograph of a baboon's anus. Instead, they opted for an abstract image in rusty orange and turquoise, reflecting the band's transitional state after firing Syd Barrett. The cover almost resembled a cell mutating in a petri dish, fitting for the band's state of flux.
The band's idea for the cover was an anatomical image of an ear underwater, but the miscommunication during a phone call with Thorgerson led to the bizarre baboon suggestion. Despite the unconventional ideas, Pink Floyd's choice prevailed, and the album cover avoided featuring primate backsides. The album cover may not be as memorable as others, but it still holds significance for Pink Floyd fans.
Meddle showcased Pink Floyd's evolution post-Syd Barrett, with tracks like "Echoes" hinting at future records like "Wish You Were Here." The album's transitions and sound elements laid the groundwork for the band's later works. While the album performed better in the U.K., reaching No. 3 on the charts, it achieved a more modest No. 70 placement in the U.S. Meddle also found success in various other countries, securing Top 40 placements in several international markets.
In conclusion, Pink Floyd's Meddle marked a pivotal moment in the band's career, showcasing their musical progression and experimentation. Despite the unconventional album cover ideas, the band's decision to go with a more abstract image paid off, setting the stage for their future iconic album covers and musical achievements.